Hope For 1 Billion Indians At The Rio Olympics

As India kick started it’s Rio Olympics campaign along with 206 countries, they also carry with them hopes of a billion people on their shoulders. Hopes are high this year due to the largest ever contingent sent by India to the Rio Olympics. While the previous Olympics in London was the most successful outing ever, the hopes for a Gold medal this time around is extremely high. Here are a few facts about India’s Olympic journey.

Silver Medal History

One of Great Britain’s silver medals was won by an Indian, Chintamoni Kar. Until 1948, Olympics had art as part of the events. Chintamoni was sculpting in Great Britain between 1946 and 1956 and was included in the Royal Society of British Sculptors. He won a silver medal for his amazing work, Skating The Stag. The International Olympic Committee took a decision to disregard all medals won in this event post 1948.

Autograph Craze

The Indian Hockey Team was one of the strongest teams during the 1930’s. They were considered unstoppable. During one of their games against the USA, the Indian teams goalkeeper got carried away and went behind the goal post to sign autographs for the fans. The USA players took this opportunity to score an easy goal. That goal however did not matter as India was already up by 24 goals!

Karnam’s Feat

Everyone remembers Karnam Malleswari? She was the first ever Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. She achieved this feat at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Mary Kom and Saina Nehwal followed suit in the years to come.

6 Consecutive Gold Medals

The Indian Hockey team is said to be the only team in history to have won six consecutive gold medals. This feat was achieved between 1928 and 1956 when the Indian team won 24 consecutive matches. The team scored 178 goals and conceded only 7 during this time. The Indian Hockey Team has won a total of 8 Golds, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze medals in Olympics.

About The Author

Priyanka

I own very little, and I make a living doing what I love. I believe The truest freedom is of the mind…a conscious act to embrace the unknown which is why I live with less and work from anywhere I choose. Some of us were born free and others of us have to fight for it. Freedom is the reason behind everything I do and freedom is what drives me to blog, build businesses and practice living an unconventional life.